On August 29, at the 2025 Chengdu Auto Show, Hyundai unveiled the next-generation Palisade, officially opening presales. Three trims were announced, with presale prices ranging from 293,800 RMB to 363,800 RMB (approx. $41,100 – $50,900 USD).
As a full model change, the new Palisade continues to position itself as a mid-to-large SUV, adopting Hyundai’s latest design language both inside and out. It features a 2+3+2 seven-seat layout and replaces the outgoing 3.5L V6 engine with a brand-new 2.5T hybrid powertrain. For reference, the outgoing 2023 Palisade in China was offered with a 3.5L V6 engine, priced between 300,800 RMB and 368,800 RMB.
Exterior Design
The new Palisade sports a boxier overall silhouette. Its front fascia features a large horizontal grille, flanked by headlamp clusters integrated with LED daytime running lights. Vertical headlights are hidden inside the DRL signature, forming a cohesive one-piece visual effect. Silver trim accents and functional air intakes on the bumper further enhance its bold, upscale look.
Based on overseas models, color options include black, white, green, gray, brown, red, blue, and silver metallic finishes.
From the side, the SUV takes on a more rugged, angular style, with silver roof rails, hidden black A/B/C-pillars for a floating-roof effect, traditional pull-type door handles, and multi-spoke wheels. Its dimensions for the Korean-spec model are 5,060 × 1,980 × 1,805 mm, with a 2,970 mm wheelbase, representing a 65 mm increase in length and 70 mm increase in wheelbase compared to the outgoing model. At the rear, the taillight design mirrors the front lamps, with hidden wipers and concealed exhaust tips. A “Hybrid” badge marks the powertrain upgrade.
Interior & Features
Inside, the new Palisade adopts Hyundai’s latest family design language. Notable updates include a new “Morse code” steering wheel, a column-mounted gear selector, and a twin 12.3-inch digital display setup (instrument cluster + infotainment screen). The center console houses both physical buttons and a touch-sensitive climate control panel, along with wireless phone charging and dual cup holders.
Overseas versions will even offer multiple seating layouts, including 2+2+3, 2+3+3, and 3+3+3, allowing up to nine passengers.
Powertrain
The new Palisade is powered by a 2.5T hybrid system, delivering a combined 334 horsepower and paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This represents a significant change from the previous Chinese-market Palisade, which used a 3.5L V6 naturally aspirated engine producing 272 hp and 336 Nm, mated to an 8-speed automatic with both FWD and AWD options.
Background & Market Positioning
The Hyundai Palisade first debuted at the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, based on the HDC-2 Grandmaster concept. It entered the Chinese market in 2020 with prices ranging from 298,800 RMB to 329,800 RMB, followed by a mid-cycle facelift in 2022.
With the arrival of this second-generation model, Hyundai aims to reposition the Palisade as a more modern, fuel-efficient hybrid SUV. In China, its competitors include the VW Teramont (from 249,000 RMB) and the Ford Explorer (from 309,800 RMB). With hybrid power, it will also rival premium models such as the Lexus RX Hybrid (405,000 – 619,000 RMB) and the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (449,800 – 559,800 RMB).
